Lower School

The Visitation Academy school environment provides a safe and positive atmosphere for critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. Small class sizes foster creativity and provide individual attention to every student’s needs and development. Students have exceptional opportunities for on-going learning experiences in an environment that promotes self-esteem, respect for others, and an appreciation of diversity in gifts, beliefs, and cultures.

The Lower School Program at Visitation Academy follows the standards and guidelines set forth by the New York State Department of Education for Language Arts, Social Studies, Mathematics and Science. Hands-on learning experiences provide students with the opportunity to explore the curriculum and to deepen their understanding of subject content.

All students in the Visitation Academy Lower School take French, Music, and Art with specialists in these fields. Physical Education takes place either in the gym or on the outdoor field which is part of the 7.5 acre campus. The Religion program is taught by the Sisters of the Visitation and is rooted in Salesian tradition and gospel values.

Reading and writing take place in all subject areas. Students in the Lower School read from a variety of literary genres. The writing process begins in Grade 1. This process progresses throughout the Lower School. Students are grouped heterogeneously and learn to work independently as well as part of a collaborative group. Individual accountability is encouraged for all students. Traditional and alternative assessments, including portfolios, give students the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding in a variety of ways.

Technology is integrated into the curriculum. All students are introduced to the keyboard and mouse. Students are taught how to access the Internet and exposed to the application of various programs. Internet access is limited to approved sites and appropriate blocks are in place. The sites visited and the computer programs used supplement and enhance learning in all areas.

Welcome Wednesdays

Visit campus on a Wednesday to learn more about Visitation Academy’s tradition of academic excellence and our history of educating young women of faith, vision and purpose.

Weekly tours of our 7.5 acre campus in the heart of Bay Ridge are available upon request every Wednesday, from 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.